The Falcons host Parma in the European Challenge Cup (3pm) needing a bonus-point win to keep their quarter-final hopes going strong.

Newcastle toiled to a 20-14 win in northern Italy last weekend and, while the players were frustrated not to put in a better showing, Falcons rugby director Bates said they were buoyed by the fans who made the trip in support.

Bates said: “We travelled to and from Parma with the supporters who made the trip, and they were in the same hotel as us.

“We mixed freely with them, and it was a great chance for the players to understand even more fully than they already did just what it means to be a supporter.”

Meanwhile, Bates once again refused to give credence to rumours of a summer exit for All Black giant Carl Hayman.